Handmade and marked 14 karat and is a yellow gold. The gold work is set with 9 pearls. We do not know who the earliest people to collect and wear pearls. However, since ancient times, the pearl has been a symbol of unblemished perfection. It is the oldest known gem, and for centuries it was considered the most valuable. A fragment of the oldest known pearl jewelry, found in the sarcophagus of a Persian princess who died in 520 BC, is displayed in the Louvre in Paris. The necklace is circa 1850 and Greek or Roman revival. The necklace is very nicely made and hangs 22 1/2 inches and the chain could be shortened or the chain can be replaced altogether. This is very beautiful and delicate in design, but strong to wear.